Filipino national among hundreds missing in deadly flash floods in Nepal
A Filipino traveler is among hundreds of people reported missing following catastrophic flash floods that struck parts of Nepal near the Nepal-Tibet border.
The Nepal Tourism Board reported that 644 individuals were unaccounted for, including one Filipino. The number also includes 127 Nepali nationals and 516 people from 31 other countries.
The board has yet to disclose details about the Filipino traveler, noting that the information is still being verified and cross-checked with travel agencies, guides, local authorities, and security agencies.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Philippine government is coordinating with Nepalese authorities and the Filipino community to verify reports involving Filipinos affected by the disaster.
Flash floods and landslides hit the Nepal-Tibet border earlier this week. As of Friday morning, Aug. 28, the death toll is at 392.
Experts warned of the risk of further floods a day after the devastating tsunami-like wall of freezing water and mud wiped out towns under a torrent of sludge, engulfing homes, smashing bridges and dams, and sweeping vehicles away like toys.
The US Geological Survey (USGS) said the disaster was caused by a glacial collapse that triggered a vast flow of icy debris. (with reports from AFP)
